The Arizona Cardinals are gaining national attention, with several players recognized in Pro Football Focus's annual 101 players list for their strong performances in the 2024 season. Running back James Conner ranked #81, cornerback Garrett Williams came in at #73, while tight end Trey McBride solidified his place as a top-50 player at #42, trailing only stars Brock Bowers and George Kittle.

However, one significant player missed the cut: safety Budda Baker. Despite a stellar season, marked by a second-place finish in total tackles (164) and a solid PFF grade of 77.8, he was overlooked for recognition alongside notable safeties such as Jessie Bates III and Derwin James. Baker’s impressive play and his recent three-year, $54 million contract extension underscore his importance to the Cardinals, especially as a defensive leader.

The Arizona Cardinals' offseason priorities center around bolstering the front seven, with a notable focus on edge rushers and interior defensive linemen, while also addressing the need for versatile offensive linemen. With Budda Baker and Jalen Thompson in the safety positions, the discussion may seem to overlook safety as a need, but Georgia's Malaki Starks emerges as a compelling candidate for the 2025 NFL Draft. His unique skill set and playmaking ability could make him a valuable asset for the Cardinals' defense.

Starks, a five-star recruit, has made a name for himself with exceptional performances during his collegiate career, earning accolades such as First-Team All-American. While safety doesn't seem like an immediate need for the Cardinals, Starks' versatility makes him an ideal candidate to fill various roles within the secondary. Adding him could not only enhance the defensive depth but also provide a long-term solution alongside Baker and Thompson.

The Arizona Cardinals' rookie safety Dadrion Taylor-Demerson emerged as a promising talent during the 2024 season, showcasing his skills despite limited snaps. Drafted in the fourth round, Taylor-Demerson played in all 17 games, stepping up significantly when fellow safety Jalen Thompson was injured. His performance in two consecutive starts against the New York Jets and Seattle Seahawks was particularly noteworthy, where he recorded three passes defensed and 15 total tackles.

Despite being overshadowed by established players like Budda Baker and Thompson, Taylor-Demerson's high motor, quick reaction times, and impressive open-field tackling made him a standout. Finishing with a solid 75.5 PFF grade, he demonstrated raw coverage skills, which could translate to an expanded role in the upcoming season. With Baker recently signing a lucrative extension, the Cardinals' coaching staff is expected to continue utilizing a rotational approach, offering Taylor-Demerson ample opportunities to develop further. His potential to boost the Cardinals' defensive secondary in 2025 is promising, marking him as a player to watch.

Budda Baker delivered an outstanding season for the Arizona Cardinals, finishing second in the NFL in tackles with an impressive 3.7 tackles over expected per game. This remarkable efficiency set a high standard for defensive backs, underscoring Baker's elite status in the league.

The New York Giants saw promising performances from rookie defensive backs Tyler Nubin and Andru Phillips, both of whom stood out in their respective tackle metrics, contributing significantly to their team's defensive efforts.

The NFL All-Pro teams will soon be revealed, highlighting the best players of the season across various positions. Named only below the MVP honors, the All-Pro selections play a critical role in a player's legacy, influencing their chances for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The anticipation of these announcements brings a mix of confidence and speculation, particularly for the standout athletes expected to secure spots.

Predictions for the First-Team Offense feature Josh Allen from the Buffalo Bills as quarterback, despite not leading in passing touchdowns or yards. He has crucially guided his team to an AFC East title. Saquon Barkley of the Philadelphia Eagles is expected to be the top running back after an extraordinary season. The receiving corps includes stars like Justin Jefferson and Ja'Marr Chase, both of whom had record-setting years.

Defensively, names like T.J. Watt from the Pittsburgh Steelers are favorites for the First-Team selection, showcasing his game-altering abilities. Alongside him are Myles Garrett and Trey Hendrickson, both of whom had remarkable seasons. The anticipation for the All-Pro announcements underscores the importance of individual excellence in a team sport.